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Approach interviews in the same way as any other interview. Preparation is key.

You should:

• Anticipate likely questions and prepare structured answers and examples
• Use the STAR technique to evidence your skills and experience
• Research the sector and organisation beyond the company website
• Practice delivering your answers
• Prepare questions to ask at the end of the interview 

Visit our Interview Preparation webpage for further information on preparing for interviews.

Group exercises may take several forms, including:

• leaderless tasks
• leadership exercises
• discussions or job-related scenarios.

You may be assigned specific roles. In this part of the process, the assessors are looking for participation, contribution, and your ability to demonstrate:

• reasoned arguments
• effective communication
• listening skills
• negotiation
• cooperation.

You may be marked against competencies such as:

• working with others
• problem-solving
• communication.

To perform well:

• Understand the task quickly without focusing on unnecessary detail
• Decide priorities early
• Contribute ideas confidently without dominating discussions
• Listen actively and encourage contributions from others
• Keep track of time and keep the group focused

Focus on demonstrating the required competencies rather than competing with others. Candidates who balance participation with collaboration and remain task-focused generally perform well.

Often used for customer-facing, sales or service roles but they can apply to many jobs. These simulate real workplace scenarios.

Approach role play by:

• Behaving naturally and professionally
• Engaging fully, even if the task feels challenging
• Treating the scenario as realistic and relevant to the role

You may be asked to complete aptitude tests (numerical, verbal or logical reasoning) or personality questionnaires. They may be after other completed tests earlier in the recruitment process.

Remember to:

• Read instructions carefully
• Ask questions if anything is unclear
• Work quickly and accurately
• Avoid getting stuck on difficult questions
• Answer personality questionnaires honestly without overthinking

Practice is recommended. Access practice tests via Graduates First (University login required).

If written communication is important for the job, you may be asked to produce a piece of written work. These assess your written communication and ability to analyse information. Tasks may include:

• summaries
• reports
• business letters
• explanations of complex information.

To perform well:

• Structure your time and response
• Keep writing clear, concise and legible
• Include introductions and summaries where appropriate
• Be prepared to present your findings verbally

You may be given preparation time in advance or on the day. Presentations typically last between 2 and 10 minutes. People can feel nervous about this element. We encourage you to practice as much as possible. 

Helpful tips include:

• Use a clear structure (beginning, middle and end)
• Use visual aids that are clear and well formatted
• Maintain eye contact and control your pace
• Keep to the allocated time

If you would like to practice delivering your presentation, you can book a ‘mock’ presentation appointment with a Careers Adviser. 

The in-tray exercise tests your ability to absorb complex material quickly, to prioritise and to make decisions. The conclusions you reach aren't expected to be perfect, but you may be asked to justify them. Be prepared to develop logical arguments to defend your decisions.

Case studies have some similarities to the in-tray exercise. It is timed, and the information you receive may be more than you can assimilate in the time available. The papers you receive will relate to a situation. You're asked to prepare a brief report, making recommendations on the action to be taken.

Some assessment centres include informal social or networking events, particularly during face-to-face assessments. While these may not always be formally assessed, you should assume you're being observed.

These events are a good opportunity to:

• Speak to current employees
• Ask prepared questions
• Assess whether the organisation is right for you
• Remain professional 
• Be positive and engaged.